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Latitude episodes

  • How Founders Win Outside Silicon Valley

    In this episode of 43North Latitude, Nicole Camarre, VP of Investments, sits down with Jaxon Stuart, Principal at Spacestation Investments!

    Jaxon shares his perspective on investing in founders from non-traditional markets, the unique advantages of building outside the coasts, and how grit, humility, and community can be a founder’s greatest assets.

    Learn how Spacestation Investments approaches venture capital with a “geography agnostic” mindset and why the next big brand could come from anywhere.

     

    Listen now!

    38 min
  • The Truth About Product-Market Fit (It’s Not What You Think)

    Most founders are chasing the wrong thing—and it’s killing their startups.

    Rob Snyder, CEO of Waffle and Reframe, breaks down the biggest mistake early-stage founders make: focusing on pain points instead of projects.

    In this episode, we dive into:

    🚀 The real way to find product-market fit

    🛠️ Why your customers’ “pain points” don’t actually matter

    📈 How to use case studies to close deals faster

    If you're trying to scale your startup, this conversation is a must-listen.

     

    31 min
  • From Google’s IPO Secrets to Buffalo’s Grit: The Inside Scoop with Lise Buyer
    Lise shares the untold stories behind Google’s legendary IPO, the secret meetings at Denny’s, and why a Playboy article almost derailed everything. From Buffalo’s grit to Silicon Valley’s boardrooms, she unpacks what it takes to go public, why some IPOs crash and burn, and what founders need to know before taking the leap.
    • What’s next for the IPO market?
    • How Buffalo’s work ethic shapes world-class leaders
    • The only S-1 in history featuring a Playboy interview
    • 21 min
    • How Alex Killian is Redefining Startup Success from Buffalo

      In this episode of Latitude, we sit down with Alex Killian—a partner at Bold Ventures, a champion for founder wellness, and a key player at Endeavor. From working with undercapitalized founders to leveraging Buffalo’s unique ecosystem, Alex shares his insights on what it takes to build thriving startups.

      We explore:

      • The power of founder wellness in reducing failure rates
      • The role of Buffalo’s ecosystem in nurturing entrepreneurs
      • How global networks like Endeavor are impacting local innovation
      • Practical advice for startups and investors alike
      • Buffalo is more than wings and snow—it’s a thriving hub of talent, creativity, and opportunity. Join us as Alex talks about creating meaningful change, building global connections, and the importance of mentorship in today’s venture landscape.

        🎧 Listen now to hear how Alex is helping redefine Buffalo’s startup scene, and don’t forget to subscribe to Latitude for more stories that inspire innovation.

        26 min
      • Hook, Line, And Accelerators: Startup Success With David Lord, From Guidesly

        In this episode of the Latitude Podcast, we're joined by David Lord and Taylor Lord from Guidesly, who are part of our new Y9 cohort. From their roots in the industry to their integration into the Buffalo community, David and Taylor share valuable insights and exciting plans for the future. Tune in to learn how Guidesly is changing the game for outdoor enthusiasts and guides alike.

        Connect with Guiseley

        LinkedIn: Guidesly
        LinkedIn: David Lord
        LinkedIn: Taylor Lord

        Guidesly Website
        Guidesly.com 

        20 min
      • Charging Ahead: Jane Chen's Electrical Revolution with StepWise

        Join us on the Latitude podcast as we dive into the journey of Jane Chen and her visionary co-founders of StepWise. Explore how StepWise is breaking down barriers in the energy sector and addressing critical bottlenecks. Learn about Jane's experience at 43North Finals, and her unexpected journey to national TV, and discover why their team chose Buffalo as the ideal place to nurture StepWise's growth.

        LinkedIn: Jane Chen

        LinkedIn: Austin Hunt

        LinkedIn: Ethan Brewer

         

         

        30 min
      • Leaning into Your Strengths for Entrepreneurial Success

        Discover the keys to entrepreneurial success as Helen Min, Managing Partner at Phenomenal Ventures, shares insights on playing to your strengths in the startup world. Helen, a Buffalo native with a background in major tech companies and advertising, discusses the evolving role of AI, the power of complementary strengths in founding teams, and the crucial art of storytelling for startup founders. 

        Connect with Helen:

        Twitter: @helen_min

        Website: Phenomenal Ventures

        Visit 43north.org to learn more

        22 min
      • How Tech Can Save You Money with StoreCash

        Join us in this episode of Latitude with 43North as Justine Palkowski, Senior Marketing Manager, welcomes Daricus Releford, Co-founder and CEO of StoreCash, a Y9 43North company. Discover how StoreCash's app helps you save 7-15% at your favorite stores, the unique QR code payment system, and how it differs from other cashback platforms. Explore the financial benefits for everyday shoppers and the exciting move to Buffalo. 

        Plus, get insights into Daricus's entrepreneurial journey and his experience as a Black founder navigating the startup landscape.

        Connect with Daricus:

        LinkedIn: Daricus Releford

        Download StoreCash:

        Download StoreCash App

        Storecash Website

        Other Mentions: 

        About 43North’s Program

        Scott Wayman, Kangarootime
        Evan Leapart, Kredit Academy and Black Men Talk Tech

        21 min

      About Latitude

      From the publisher's feed

      Presented by the 43North team, we dive into deep conversations with founders, CEOs, and venture capitalists who are building Buffalo’s thriving startup and tech ecosystem. If you’re an entrepreneur,…